Sunday, July 21, 2024 Île d’Yeu, a small continental island off the coast of Pays de Loire, has been captivating visitors for centuries. This enchanting island, just 10 km long and home to 5,000 residents, is often compared to a “mini Majorca” but without the overwhelming crowds of tourists. Renowned for its rugged, unspoilt coastline reminiscent of the Celtic landscapes of Scotland, and its rich cultural heritage dating back to prehistoric times, Île d’Yeu offers a unique and tranquil atmosphere.
The island is part of the private association of the Islands of Ponant (AIP), which includes 15 inhabited islands on France’s Atlantic coast and Channels. This association promotes economic, cultural, and tourist development while ensuring the maintenance of territories conducive to active and attractive island communities. Reaching Île d’Yeu is a delightful adventure.
Located 17 km from the coast, the island can be accessed via ferry from Fromentine, Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, or Noirmoutier, or by air via helicopter or plane. The Fromentine—Port-Joinville ferry operates year-round, with additional ferries available from Saint Gilles Croix de Vie (April to September) and Barbâtre, Noirmoutier (July and August). Port-Joinville is the main entry point, where visitors are greeted by an idyllic marina filled with fishing boats and traditional whitewashed houses.
The island’s vibrant center features colorful stalls and a variety of eateries offering traditional delicacies. Don’t miss trying Patagos, a shellfish dish served in a rich creamy parsley and garlic sauce, or the traditional prune tart known as “tarte aux pruneaux.” Nature and Activities abound on Île d’Yeu.
Enjoy a pleasant stroll by the sea, on the beach, or along numerous cross-country trails. Visit the Le Vieux Château, a 14th-century fortress offering stunning views and a glimpse into the island’s preserved history. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the island’s perfectly preserved environment, which boasts over 760 wild plant species and spectacular flowering displays year-round.
The island’s coastal areas, wetlands, and groves are home to nearly 290 species of birds. If you time your visit right, you may even spot penguins on the coast in August. Île d’Yeu also features thirty beaches, offering a superb selection of small coves and wide sandy stretches.
The western and southern parts of the island are perfect for exploring small coves and coastal creeks, with Plage des Soux and the Anse des Fontaines bay being particularly popular. For beach lovers , the long sandy beaches of the northeastern coast, between the salt marshes and Ker Châlon, are ideal for swimming and watersports due to shallow waters, lack of currents, and warmer sea temperature.
